Play Opportunities for School-Age Children, 6 to 14 Years of Age. Advisory Document.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., Ottawa (Ontario).

Suggestions for the planning and design of playgrounds to meet the needs of children between 6 to 14 years of age living in medium- and high-density residential areas are offered in this document. The first and second chapters briefly focus on the child's right to play and present an overview of the developmental characteristics of children at different ages. In the third chapter seven basic categories of playground activities in the physical, social, creative and intellectual domains are listed and elaborated. In addition, performance criteria for planning and spatial design are specified and the behaviors that play structures generate are briefly described. The fourth chapter provides guidelines for selecting play activities and designing play sites in a manner appropriate to play behavior. The fifth chapter deals with specific design details that enhance the value of play facilities. Design solutions that fit the characteristics and play needs of school-age children are suggested. Four examples of site designs, including construction cost estimates, are provided in the sixth chapter. The seventh and final chapter explores issues related to site management, resident participation, and maintenance. A summary, a list of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation resource materials and additional references, and a glossary are included at the end of this advisory document. (Author/RH)